+ Dita Von Teese – Modern Day ‘Pin-Up’ Gal inspired by ladies of the 40s

I had to do a little Internet research last week for a 40s Hollywood Glamour themed-party- that turned out fabulously (photos will definitely follow).

Before Marilyn Monroe….
I was so inspired by photos of 40s actresses and even everyday women with their hourglass shapes (we are just not made like that anymore), pin-curled hair, classic make-up and feminine demeanor. This is the era of Rita Hayworth and Veronica Lake; an era that inspired ‘pin-up’ girls and the look of ladies like Dita Von Teese.

So to preface my 40s evening and escapade, I want to share photos of a few of the era’s most beautiful leading ladies (there are many more famous not included here) and the look of the 40s:

+ Ava Gardner



+ Hedy Lamarr



+ Ava Gardner and Lana Turner

2008 was all glitter and gold (thus these pix); 2009 is EVERYTHING sequins…what will you be wearing?!

Jeans, jackets, purses, shoes, scarves, shirts, dresses and skirts @ Value Village

The Challenge:
To find a complete fabulous outfit for $50.

The Find:
An amazing ‘eurotrash’ stylish outfit (complete with boots) that I love:


1. Marciano jeans (perfect condition AND already hemmed) $9.99
2. Upside down tank top shirt with ribbon detail, screen print and jewelled embellishment $12.99
3. Fake Prada purse (that I gave to a thankful friend because of my adversity to fake bags) $7.99
4. Knee-high Italian leather boots $12.99
5. Grey velvet cropped jacket $12.99

When I began this challenge of finding a complete, head-to-toe fall outfit, I could have opted for a cutesy dress and cardigan combo or 80s tapered pants and boyfriend blazer – but decided on more practical pieces that I could mix and match and get the most wear out of: jeans and a shirt.

Value Village has a huge selection of jeans, nicely organized by size, ranging from $7.99 to $9.99. The two pair of jeans I ended up buying – Marciano and Club Monaco – were in great condition and fit perfectly!

I passed up many colorful vintage pumps for these boots. Although they’re a few seasons old, I could not pass up the $12.99 price tag for perfect condition leather Italian designer super high boots that’ll look great worn over jeans or even with a dress.

I attempted to seek out the perfect ‘vintage’ boyfriend blazer but came upon this fabulous grey velvet cropped jacket for $12.99! I splurged on this trip and bought a second jacket – a snug, bleached zip-up jean jacket!

Value Village stores are all over the city – all with different inventory that changes constantly! For the best finds and deals you should try to peruse often.

We are giving away 2 – $50 Value Village gift certificates through our Torontostreetfashion Facebook Group >> courtesy of Value Village!

Nay: Winter Legs

YAY: Spring Legs!!!